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I'm curious to hear from you all on the topic of Stephen and Acts 7. Is Stephen's speech considered preaching, given his monologue, ~100 or so OT references being proclaimed and taught with authority to a group of individuals? In what way is Stephen to be an example to ordinary Christian men, if any?
For context, I'm wrestling with distinctions such as gifted brethren and pastoral interns. Even within denominations, sessions or associations there seems to be a spectrum of opinions about whether or not teaching or gospel proclamation should be done outside of the four walls of the church and if so, by whom.
To be clear, I'm not wrestling with NCT or anything like that. I think anyone doing this should absolutely be covenanting with a local body of believers as members in good standing, in full submission to their elders, etc., as opposed to self-willed, self-called men championing parachurch ministries. On the contrary, I'm of the 'ask permission' rather than 'ask forgiveness' persuasion, since whatever doesn't come from faith would be sin. Just seeking to understand where these distinctions exist and if there is biblical or confessional warrant for them.
Any information along these lines would be most welcome.
For context, I'm wrestling with distinctions such as gifted brethren and pastoral interns. Even within denominations, sessions or associations there seems to be a spectrum of opinions about whether or not teaching or gospel proclamation should be done outside of the four walls of the church and if so, by whom.
To be clear, I'm not wrestling with NCT or anything like that. I think anyone doing this should absolutely be covenanting with a local body of believers as members in good standing, in full submission to their elders, etc., as opposed to self-willed, self-called men championing parachurch ministries. On the contrary, I'm of the 'ask permission' rather than 'ask forgiveness' persuasion, since whatever doesn't come from faith would be sin. Just seeking to understand where these distinctions exist and if there is biblical or confessional warrant for them.
Any information along these lines would be most welcome.